A report was released last night (Tuesday night) from advisors to the FDA that had re-examined all of the data regarding the potential harm from BPA. For those of you who aren’t aware, BPA stands for Bisphenol-A – a “synthetic estrogen” chemical used in the manufacture of plastics, most commonly those with the recycling #7.

The advisors, who were initially believed to be too closely tied to the plastics industry, gave environmental groups a pleasant surprise by concurring that there is inherent danger with the chemical and that the exposure to humans (particularly infants) poses significant concern. The particular concern is with infants as they are exposed at notably high levels during their first few months which can impact development and also future risk of diabetes, obesity and cancer.

The way we are exposed to BPA is when the chemical leeches into liquids that are stored in that plastic – either #7 plastic bottles or cans lined with plastic (infant formula, canned fruits and vegetables etc). The longer the liquid is in contact with the plastic – the worse it is.

I saw a segment this morning on the Early Show (click here for the report) – the doctor and the journalist came right out and said clearly – DO NOT drink or eat from #7 plastic. That was the first time I had heard it so strongly – it’s usually “try to avoid.”

So here’s the most frustrating part, this report was requested after another report in September had linked BPA to developmental delays, diabetes, cancer, heart disease and early onset puberty. The report had clearly stated the dangers, however the FDA came out and maintained their position that BPA is safe in the levels it is currently used. This was despite the fact that well-respected scientists were claiming that the chemical can alter cell activity at extremely low levels – and we are exposed to 10 to 100 times those levels. (read this report from USA Today)

So in comes this panel of advisors – OK’d by the FDA – to give their thorough and final assessment. As if we need one? And lo and behold they are in agreement – BPA is a threat to human health. So you would THINK that the FDA would cry “uncle” and give in. Really. But it doesn’t look like it. Despite the fact that countries like Canada have already banned BPA, our FDA is going to take it’s own sweet time in making a decision. And don’t hold your breath that it will be the right decision. The plastics industry is big and strong. Human health doesn’t hold a torch to the powers of plastics lobbyists. Lesson learned? You CANNOT trust that the FDA will keep your health as its number 1 (or even #2, #5 or #10) priority. You have to stay informed and listen to the real experts – the ones without any agenda.

The experts are clearly saying: DON’T USE #7 PLASTIC – check all of your sports bottles (YES – that means your Nalgene has to go), your baby bottles etc. It also means the big water cooler bottles at your office or in your home (like Poland Spring). Avoid canned goods with plastic linings (ugh – that one is hard!) And stay informed.